Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Braves provide injury update on Austin Riley

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated Aug 19, 2024 3:13 PM ET

After Brian Snitker told the media yesterday that Austin Riley‘s initial tests on his wrist were deemed inconclusive, the writing seemed to be on the wall that it was somewhat serious. Now, we have the official diagnosis.

Austin Riley did indeed fracture his wrist. He does not need surgery but will be sidelined for 6-8 weeks.

Austin Riley today underwent an MRI that revealed a right hand fracture. He is expected to miss approximately six to eight weeks.

Additionally, the club today returned RHP Reynaldo López from his rehabilitation assignment and reinstated him from the injured list, and optioned…

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 19, 2024

It’s not the worst case scenario, as Riley could potentially return to the lineup for a postseason run. However, his regular season is likely over, and even getting to the playoffs without Riley feels like a mountain that might be too great to climb for a Braves club that has been completely ravaged by injuries.

Austin Riley is the most irreplaceable player on the roster right now. There is no obvious replacement for him at third base, and he was the best player on the team with Ronald Acuña Jr. already out for the season. Beyond that, he’s arguably the biggest leader in the clubhouse. This is the gut punch that might finally break the Braves, but somehow, this club keeps finding ways to win and keep their postseason hopes alive.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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